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Donald Knupke Obituary
Dec 8, 1943 - Nov 3, 2022
Sandusky
Donald L. "Don" Knupke, 78, of Sandusky, passed away unexpectedly late Thursday evening, Nov. 3, 2022, at home.
Don was born Dec. 8, 1943, in Sandusky, the son of Luther Albert and Sarah Jane (Fairfield) Knupke. He was a 1961 graduate of Sandusky High School and after graduating, he enlisted and served honorably in U.S. Air Force. In his earlier years, he drove truck for a variety of trucking companies and later worked with his brother, John, at Knupke Construction for several years before retiring.
Don will be remembered by his family for how he loved to work with his hands, no matter the size of the project. He was drawn to building projects for his daughters and grandchildren while embracing an artistic side to him as he also enjoyed painting and drawing.
Don was a life member of AMVETS Post #17 and V.F.W. post #2529, as well as a member of American Legion Post #83.
He is survived by his wife of 56 years, Beverly A. "Bev" (Laws) Knupke, whom he married Aug. 20, 1966; daughters, Kelly (Mike) Searles, Karri (John) Sharkey, and Kristy (Ken Bakos) Knupke; grandchildren, Gunar and Foster Riegelmayer, Allison, Cameron, and Jack Sharkey, Olivia and Lily Smith, and Brayden Fowler; sister, Laurie Gilbert; and many nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents; grandson, Dylan Sharkey; and brother, John Knupke.
It is his wish to be cremated. Mass of Christian burial will be 10 a.m Thursday, Nov. 10, 2022, at Holy Angels Catholic Church, 428 Tiffin Avenue, Sandusky. Fr. Mark Herzog will officiate. Military honors will be conducted by American Legion Post #83 and VFW Post #2529.
The family requests that any memorial contributions be made to Cancer Service of Erie County, 505 E. Perkins Avenue, Sandusky, Ohio, 44870, or Sandusky Public Library, 114 W. Adams Street, Sandusky, Ohio, 44870.
Arrangements have been entrusted to David F. Koch Funeral and Cremation Services, 520 Columbus Avenue, Sandusky.
Your memories and words of comfort may be shared with Don's family at davidfkoch.com.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Donald Knupke
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4 Entries
Tony and Charlotte Myers
November 8, 2022
Sending prayers to Beverly and the whole family at this difficult time. Loving memories will forever be in your hearts.
Julie Hilsen
November 8, 2022
My deepest sympathy to you. Growing up you know that some people are special and they humbly are there supporting and caring. I always knew him as Kristy's dad. I honor him and cherish all the joyful times he provided to his daughters. The grounding force he was and the spirit who always lit up the room. I will never forget the times we had political debates at the kitchen table or the wonder I found in his creations. I mean the bird house built into the living room was simply genius! I had no idea he was in the Air Force. He was a proud patriot and that means so much. He was also a very proud husband and Father and I never got to see him with the Grandchildren but I bet that was magical. Beverly, I can only imagine the void you feel. I send you prayers and support of the highest kind. May a thousand Angels help lift your heart to keep breathing in the goodness of what you still have. His legacy lives on.
Sincerely, Julie Hilsen (Myers)
Tami and Doug Blackburn
November 7, 2022
Thinking of you all at this time.
nicole and mike fennell / terry wilson
November 5, 2022
Bev, Kelly, Karrie, Kristy and family - we are so sorry to hear of Don's passing. We love you and hope you find comfort in the warm memories of him. Hugs and prayers to all of you.
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